Beverly Jenkins Winds of the Storm

Winds of the Storm

Beverly Jenkins

Avon, May 2006, $5.99

ISBN: 006057531X

In 1871 South Carolina Harriet "Araminta" Tubman informs Zahra Lafayette that President Grant wants her to look how strong the storm winds are blowing in New Orleans that could undo much of the freedom the former slaves have obtained. Her prize for helping the President is land for her parents though by law they should have gained the acreage as freedmen by now. Reluctantly she agrees to go undercover as renowned Madam Domino.

In New Orleans, Domino meets wealthy Archer Le Veq, whom she rescued from certain death in 1863; still she hides her identity behind her domino mask. Hotel owner Archer is intrigued by the rumors of the owner of the most exclusive brothel in town. He plans to unmask her and more in his bed. Though attracted to Archer, Zahra must stay focused for distraction could lead to a fatal mistake as dangerous murders with "death books" frequent her part of the city.

WINDS OF THE STORM, the sequel to THROUGH THE STORM, is a great Reconstruction Era romantic intrigue starring two courageous individuals supported by a captivating historical foundation. The story line is action-packed with historical tidbits cleverly interwoven into the invigorating plot. However, it is the cast especially the romance between the lead pair and the insight into the city that makes Beverly Jenkins latest tale a must read for Americana fans.

Harriet Klausner